Trees Available to Save Lake Murray Shoreline

(WLTX) As part of the shoreline enhancement project for Lake Murray, SCE&G will give away tree seedlings to residents along Lake Murray on Friday, Feb. 15 from 2 - 5 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 16 from 9 a.m.- noon.

The seedlings will be distributed at the SCE&G Enviromental Building, located on the north side of the Lake Murray Dam at 6248 Bush River Rd in Irmo.

The Lake Murray shoreline habitat enhancement project is a cooperative effort between SCE&G, the S.C. Department of Natural Resources and lake interest groups. It is designed to improve the aesthetics of the lake's shoreline, help control erosion, re-establish shoreline vegetation and protect water quality.

cypressTommy Boozer, who heads up SCE&G's lake management activities, said the planting of trees, shrubs and grasses helps enhance the fish habitat and reduce shoreline erosion. "This program is designed as a long-term project to re-establish shoreline vegetation," said Boozer. "It will take a cooperative effort between lake management agencies, the general public and individual property owners to make the project a success."

Now in its 15th year, the tree giveaway has provided trees for hundreds of property owners.

The seedlings will be distributed in bundles of 10 and 15 trees and include Cypress, River Birch, Button Bushes and Southern Wax Myrtles. Planting instructions will be provided.

"This is a great opportunity for individuals and lake groups to get involved by planting shoreline vegetation and enhancing wildlife habitat," said Boozer. "They will be available for lake property owners to pick up and plant on the shoreline in front of their lots."

For more information, call SCE&G's Lake Management Department at 803-217-9221.